How to Start an LLC as a Freelancer in 2025
A simple step-by-step guide for freelancers to start an LLC, from choosing a name to filing and getting your EIN.
What You Need Before You File
Essential Information
- • Your full legal name and address
- • Business name (with 2-3 backup options)
- • Business purpose/description
- • State where you'll form the LLC
- • Payment method for filing fees
Time Investment
- • Research and name selection: 1-2 hours
- • Filing Articles of Organization: 15 minutes
- • Getting EIN: 5 minutes
- • Setting up business bank account: 1-2 hours
- • Creating operating agreement: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step: Pick State, Register Name, File Articles
Choose Your State
For most freelancers, form your LLC in the state where you live and work. This avoids the complexity and cost of foreign LLC registration.
Pro Tip
Only consider forming in Delaware or Nevada if you have specific tax or legal reasons. For freelancers, your home state is almost always the best choice.
Check Name Availability
Search your state's business name database to ensure your chosen name is available. Most states require "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" in the name.
- • Check for exact matches and similar names
- • Avoid names that could be confused with existing businesses
- • Have 2-3 backup options ready
File Articles of Organization
This is the official document that creates your LLC. You'll need to provide basic information about your business and pay the filing fee.
Required Information:
- • LLC name and address
- • Member names and addresses
- • Registered agent information
- • Business purpose
Filing Fees:
- • Most states: $100-200
- • California: $70
- • Texas: $300
- • New York: $200
Get Your EIN and Set Up Business Bank Account
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Your EIN is like a Social Security number for your business. It's required for opening a business bank account and filing taxes.
Business Bank Account
Separate your business and personal finances. This is crucial for maintaining liability protection and simplifying accounting.
Operating Agreement and Tax Tips
Operating Agreement
While not legally required in most states, an operating agreement is highly recommended. It helps maintain liability protection and provides clarity on business structure.
- • Defines ownership percentages
- • Outlines management structure
- • Establishes voting procedures
- • Protects liability protection
- • Required for some banks and investors
Tax Considerations
LLCs offer tax flexibility. By default, single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships, but you can elect different tax treatment.
- • Pass-through taxation (default)
- • Potential S-Corp election for savings
- • Business expense deductions
- • Quarterly estimated tax payments
- • Separate business and personal expenses
How Start With Genie Simplifies the Entire Process
Step-by-Step Guidance
We walk you through every step with clear instructions, checklists, and state-specific requirements. No guesswork, no confusion.
All Documents Included
Get your operating agreement, EIN application guide, and all necessary forms. Everything you need in one place.
Flat $49 Rate
No hidden fees, no upsells, no surprise charges. Just $49 for everything you need to form your LLC properly.
See our detailed cost breakdown to understand how we compare to LegalZoom and other services.